To get the scoop on how Fishdom: Spooky Splash was created, I decided to chat with Leonid Pakholkov, the game’s project manager, nicknamed “Fishdomman” here at Playrix. Want to know why? Read on!

Why are you called Fishdomman?

I’ve been working on the Fishdom series since I joined the company. The original Fishdom was my first project, and as you can see, I’ve remained pretty faithful to the aquarium game.

How did the idea of Fishdom come about?

The idea was spearheaded by our VP of Production, Igor Elovikov, and, as usual, it happened when least expected. It seems that brilliant ideas come right out of the blue, but their foundation is built on thorough analysis, staying on board with players and trying to be responsive to their needs.

What is the secret of Fishdom’s success? In many ways, match-3 games launched the casual games industry as we know it today, but their popularity has waned in recent years. Fishdom seems to be an exception...

New Fish and Water Plants

You’re right it’s a secret, and as a real secret I’m not going to share it. :) I think, despite the wide popularity of hidden object games, high-quality and compelling match-3’s will always appeal to the audience. I’m positive it’s not just addictive tile-swapping levels that keep people hooked on Fishdom. Rather, it has a unique atmosphere with bright colors and a relaxing environment. Fishdom is a game where everyone can unleash their creativity, by decorating tanks to their taste and taking care of their virtual pets.

Please tell us about the unique features of Fishdom: Spooky Splash.

New Ornaments

In Fishdom: Spooky Splash, players build up their spooky aquarium and create the eerie atmosphere of a haunted house full of witches, vampires and ghosts, but with an underwater twist! While completing match-3 levels, you earn cash to buy almost one hundred fish and Halloween-themed ornaments. We’ve also got new matching tiles that include ghosts, pumpkins and witch's hats. While working on this game we took on board some great ideas from our Fishdom fans, for instance, the ability to buy and decorate an unlimited number of tanks.

The initial Fishdom creates a very relaxing environment. Is Fishdom: Spooky Splash as relaxing as the flagship title?

Fishdom: Spooky Splash has its own unique atmosphere. It’s just as much fun and relaxing as the original Fishdom, but quirky fish, spooky ornaments and eerie music create an absolutely new and unique experience. I’m reluctant to describe the atmosphere of the game, you need to try it for yourself. Then you’ll know!

How do you come up with all these funny fish?

It’s the work of our 3D modelers. They put in a lot of time and effort on every game. They’re always on the look-out for real fish types. As soon as they find some interesting species, they draw pictures of them and turn them into characters for the game. Every fish should have a distinctive character, a certain feel about it, to inhabit our Fishdom.

Lionfish

Step 1. Photo

Step 2. Sketch

Step 3. 3D Model

Green Turtle

Step 1. Photo

Step 2. Sketch

Step 3. 3D Model

Do you have a fish tank at home?

No, I don’t. I have a nice cat. Real aquariums are a lot of work. When I feel like watching fish and taking care of them, I just start my Fishdom game!

Thanks a lot, Leonid! Keep up your awesome work! We’ll be looking forward to more great games from you!